MichaelC[AP Moderator]
18888
B. Royal Oak Offshore Diver, ceramic case and bezel
Feb 02, 2013,08:04 AM
2013 reveals another ceramic cased and bezeled watch, and this time it is a new version of the Royal Oak Offshore Diver. Water resistant to pressure sustained at a depth of 300m, the Offshore Diver is fully compliant with the NIHS 92-11 (ISO6425) norm.
As with the Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph 44mm in ceramic, the same efforts have been applied to the finishing of the material. The combination of brushed and polished ceramic is absolutely exquisite on the Offshore case. Once again, AP claims its ceramic is 7 times harder than steel, and can only be scratched by a diamond. For anyone who actually wears a fine timepiece while diving, this is a very important feature, as the diver is frequently around materials that can easily scratch a traditional metal watch, such as boat ladders, oxygen tanks, vest buckles, etc.
To pair with the deep black color of the ceramic, the Manufacture has selected a vibrant orange for the 15 minute diving scale and for the minutes hand. This color ensures maximum legibility and instant readings of essential information during submersion.
A primary feature not to be overlooked on Audemars Piguet's Offshore Diver series is the rotating dive-time pre-selection device. Traditionally executed by other brands as an external rotating bezel, AP identified the shortcomings of that design and eliminated them by placing the rotating ring inside of the watch case. External bezels are prone to accidental movement, and can also become jammed from grains of sand or salt. By positioning the device inside the case, these dangers are removed. Activated by the watertight ceramic crown located on the caseband at 10:00, the system represents a significant safety feature on the watch. Also of note, AP states that both crowns can be safely handled under water thanks to the innovative water tightness gaskets.
AP's selfwinding Manufacture Calibre 3120 powers this substantial timepiece, providing 60 hours of power reserve. In addition to the center seconds hand, a date function at 3:00 is also provided.
For the first time on a Offshore Diver watch, AP has elected to include a sapphire crystal held in place by the titanium caseback to allow viewing of the Calibre 3120. This is no small feat, considering the crystal must maintain resistance to the stated 300m depth.
A rubber strap with titanium pin buckle complete the Royal Oak Offshore ceramic Diver, and it is extremely comfortable on the wrist.
I will readily admit, when I first saw the ceramic Diver in the display case, I thought "great looking execution of the Diver, but maybe not for me". Upon having it on my wrist, I quickly changed my mind, as the level of finishing of the ceramic is extremely appealing. I have owned other ceramic watches by different manufactures, but I have never had ceramic evoke such feelings of warmth and refinement. This model is definitely on my wishlist.
Reference number for the Royal Oak Offshore Diver with ceramic case and bezel is 15707CE.OO.A002CA.01.